Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has condemned the recent attacks by Houthi forces on Saudi Arabia, emphasizing Italy’s solidarity with the Kingdom. During a phone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Tajani articulated Italy’s commitment to protecting civilians and infrastructure and expressed appreciation for Saudi efforts in ensuring the safety of Italian citizens residing in the region.
In their discussion, the ministers focused on the need for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing Yemen crisis, underscoring the importance of supporting United Nations initiatives aimed at achieving peace. Additionally, the conversation addressed maritime security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, highlighting the necessity of preserving freedom of navigation and securing commercial shipping lanes in the Gulf region.
Tajani also underscored the significance of bolstering the European Union’s Operation Aspides, a naval mission initiated in February 2024 to safeguard shipping movements in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This defensive operation is part of broader efforts to strengthen regional security and ensure the safe passage of vessels.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Cabinet issued a warning to the Houthis regarding potential consequences for their continued attacks on the Kingdom. The Cabinet reasserted the importance of protecting navigation through the Red Sea and the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, while commending the international Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen for its operations against Houthi forces.